Behold the Woman bathing After bathing statue. This isn’t just any sculpture. It’s a statement. A playful giantess seemingly taking a dip in the Alster Lake.
The Woman bathing After bathing statue is a unique piece. It’s designed by Oliver Voss. He released it to the public on August 13 2011. The sculpture’s size is impressive. Only her head and knees are visible above the water. It’s as if she’s relaxing in a giant bathtub.
This artwork caused quite a stir. Some people loved it. Others called it an eyesore. District mayor Markus Schreiber even complained. He thought it sullied the beloved lake. But artist Oliver Voss defended his work. He believed it celebrated the relationship between Hamburg and its water. He wanted to make people smile and rediscover the city’s waterways. He saw the Inner Alster as Hamburg’s living room. He suggested that someone should make themselves comfortable there.
The Woman bathing After bathing statue isn’t just a local attraction. It inspired a similar sculpture. American artist Mark Cline created Lady in the Lake. It’s located in Barber Marina Alabama. He created it the following year in 2012.
Interestingly the statue was sponsored by Soap & Glory. This British beauty products company wanted to thank its German customers. They thought it was a fun way to promote the art of bathing. Many tourists even rent rowboats to get a better view. They get closer to marvel at the giantess’s scale.
The Woman bathing After bathing statue has certainly sparked conversations. It remains a memorable Hamburg landmark. It represents the playful side of art and its power to both delight and provoke. The sculpture reminds us to appreciate the unexpected and embrace the joy of a good splash.